Wellness Inspection: Sometimes occupants become desensitized to the odors around them, but that does not mean that these chemicals, such as formaldehyde and others, stop affecting them and complain of symptoms such as throat irritation, nose, eyes, and skin continue even with the absence of an odor. Years of experience have taught us that it is not only testing but taking inventory of the surroundings and removing the cause of the irritant. That is why our holistic air can be sampled, and quantitative analysis of the concentration of Formaldehyde and TVOC can be provided. This could be required after a fire and smoke event, where large amounts of complex particulates are created, often VOCs.

Formaldehyde is a colorless, strong-smelling gas. It is produced naturally by humans, plants (mainly wood), and animals. Many men-made materials also contain formaldehyde, including engineered wood products (e.g., particle board, plywood, OSB, MDF, flooring, etc.), some preservatives, personal care and cleaning products, cosmetics, permanent press fabrics, glues, air fresheners, paints, and coatings. Formaldehyde is also a byproduct of combustion, including vehicle exhaust, fuel-burning appliances (gas stoves, kerosene space heaters, etc.), fireplaces, wildfires, structural fires, tobacco smoke, and trash fires. Formaldehyde is a known human carcinogen (cancer-causing agent); it can also cause nasal and eye irritation, increased risk of asthma and allergies, and neurological effects. At concentrations over 500 ppb, it can also cause eczema and changes in lung function. Animal studies also showed decreased body weight, gastrointestinal ulcers, and liver and kidney damage at high doses.